WP1 (KAM): Due to the situation where there was a very low number of local SME Instrument beneficiaries, local entities with innovative ideas were encouraged to submit proposals. Continuous promotion of the instrument was done through local events, and more specifically during one-to-one meetings with SMEs with appropriate potential. Results of SME Instrument were followed closely in order to retain an updated list of local SMEs that are submitting proposals, including those receiving a Seal of Excellence. An investigation of possible ways of supporting SoE holders has commenced, with direct communication with the relevant personnel from the European Commission and the SoE Community of Practice. This has borne the desired results and the Consortium is pleased to announce that national funds will be finally put aside to support Maltese SoE companies as of 2019.
WP2 (EIMC): Four clients were targeted to benefit from this action and enhance their innovation management capacity. The initial meetings were held wherein it was explained to them the benefits of, and purpose of assessing one’s company disposition to, utilizing innovation management techniques and whether improvement could be made in the future. Ultimately only one client effectively participated in the assessment of its extent of its innovation management techniques used in their daily operations, organisational structure, culture and policies. Following the improve assessment process a report was prepared and a discussion on the outcome ensued. A work programme was drafted to outline the way forward to introduce changes to enhance the use of the innovation management techniques and improve areas of operations. The recommendations to client were basically to define and document an innovation strategy, to communicate the defined strategy internally and to encourage vertical contributions/inputs thereto. The company welcomed these recommended actions and the consortium will re-visit the client in the near future to monitor the progress.
